Learning how to say “Happy Birthday” in Japanese is a great way to show your friends and loved ones that you care. In Japan, birthdays are typically celebrated with family and close friends, and it’s important to know the appropriate phrases for such occasions. This guide will provide you with both formal and informal ways to express birthday wishes in Japanese, along with a few tips and examples. So let’s get started!
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Formal Ways to Say “Happy Birthday” in Japanese
When addressing someone of higher social status or older age, it is common to use more formal language to convey your wishes. Here are a few phrases suitable for formal contexts:
- お誕生日おめでとうございます。 (Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu)
This is the most widely used phrase to wish someone a happy birthday in formal settings. It literally translates to “Congratulations on your birthday,” and is similar to saying “Happy Birthday” in English. It is appropriate for colleagues, acquaintances, or people you’re not extremely close to. - 誕生日おめでとうございます。 (Tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu)
This phrase is another formal way to wish someone a happy birthday. It is slightly less common than the previous one, but still widely used. - お誕生日おめでとうございましょう。 (Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimashou)
This phrase is a formal suggestion to celebrate the person’s birthday. It can be used when arranging a party or gathering, showing your intention to make their birthday special.
Informal Ways to Say “Happy Birthday” in Japanese
When addressing friends, family, or people of younger age, a more casual and friendly tone is appropriate. Here are some informal phrases you can use:
- お誕生日おめでとう！ (Otanjoubi omedetou!)
This is the most commonly used phrase among friends and family to wish someone a happy birthday. Adding an exclamation point at the end of the phrase adds enthusiasm and warmth to your wishes. - 誕生日おめでとう！ (Tanjoubi omedetou!)
Similar to the previous phrase, this is also an informal and widely used way to say “Happy Birthday.” It is commonly used among friends, classmates, and close acquaintances. - おたんじょうびおめでとう！ (Otanjobi omedetou!)
For a more playful and cute effect, you can use this variation. It is often used among siblings, close friends, or when addressing children.
Tips and Cultural Considerations
When wishing someone a happy birthday in Japanese, keep in mind the following tips:
- Add the person’s name: To make your wishes more personal, consider adding the person’s name after the phrase. For example, “お誕生日おめでとうございます、太郎さん！” (Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu, Tarou-san!)
- Use honorifics: In formal situations, it’s important to use honorific language to show respect. Add “さん” (san) after the person’s name to make it more polite.
- Pair it with a card or gift: In Japanese culture, gestures such as giving a birthday card or a small gift along with your wishes are highly appreciated.
- Be sensitive to age: In Japan, age is often a sensitive topic. If you’re unsure about someone’s age, it’s better to use a more general phrase like “お誕生日おめでとうございます” (Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu) instead of mentioning the specific age.
“お誕生日おめでとうございます、太郎さん！素敵な一年になりますように。” (Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu, Tarou-san! Suteki na ichi-nen ni narimasu you ni.)
Translation: “Happy Birthday, Tarou! Wishing you a wonderful year ahead.”
Remember, when expressing your wishes in Japanese, the key is to convey your warm feelings and make the recipient feel special. Now you have the knowledge to wish someone a happy birthday in both formal and informal contexts. Let the celebration begin!
